Modern times have seen people becoming more connected than ever. The Internet allows for instant messaging via computers, cellular phones, and other mobile devices. There’s hardly any time when a person is not communicating with someone else via these channels—for work, business, or personal reasons.
At home, the telephone still plays a central role, although it may seem like it has been eclipsed by Internet and cellphone use. Most households all over the world still prefer to have a home phone so that family and friends can have a single point of contact. But with all the advancements in technology, is the traditional landline still worth keeping?
There are three options for home telephone systems: cellular phones, landlines, and voice over internet protocol (VoIP). A VoIP phone system for your home uses the Internet to connect the home phone to a provider. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Landlines
These used to monopolize the telecommunications scene. Providers charge a flat fee for the basic service, and users pay additional fees for added features such as caller ID, call blocking, or having an additional fax machine or tablet connected to it. The problem with this setup is that you get charged for making calls from your landline to a cellphone or placing international and long-distance calls. On average, a household will spend $40 a month, and there are additional taxes, too. The advantage of having a landline is that it isn’t dependent on cellular phone towers for signals. When mobile networks are down, you’ll most likely still have a dial tone. Most landline phones don’t need to be charged. This can be a big advantage during emergency situations.
Mobile Phones
These are convenient, portable, and sleek. Your cellular phone can be connected to a home phone system via Bluetooth linking. The problem with this setup is the cost since you practically have to buy a second line or pay for additional minutes to cover the home phone use. This can cost you an extra $10 to $40 a month on top of your current mobile phone fees.
VoIP
VoIP systems are now a practical choice for home use because they are relatively inexpensive. They are also convenient to use since most Internet service providers (ISPs) now include a VoIP phone to their Internet service package. In short, you don’t have to apply separately for a VoIP phone for your home. There’s no monthly bill, too, unless if you want to add the 911 service that costs $1 a month.
How do they make this so cheap? There’s no need to create a separate infrastructure for VoIP phones. When you make a phone call, it is routed to the same network that runs your Internet. There’s no big investment or capital outlay that must be recouped.
Another big advantage is that you’ll be able to use your VoIP phone anywhere. Even if you move to a new home, you won’t need to apply for a transfer. There is also no additional charges when you make long-distance or international calls. This can be a big advantage if you often travel for work or if you have loved ones living overseas.
It’s important to find more efficient and cheaper alternatives for home telephone systems. It keeps everyone in the family connected. It also helps lower household expenses.
